Marise Payne (NSW, Liberal Party, Minister for Defence) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Back for what is a very important question in relation to Australia's long-term security, because for the Turnbull government Australia's safety and security is our first priority. In February this year the Prime Minister and I released the defence white paper, the Integrated Investment Program—which is fully costed and fully funded—and the Defence Industry Policy Statement, which together are Australia's comprehensive and long-term plan for our future national security.

Not only are we investing in the key capabilities that we need across Navy, Army and Air Force to ensure that our Defence Force remains at the technological cutting edge; we are also investing in the key enablers that support these platforms. We are investing in the sort of critical infrastructure that allows the ADF to do its job—the bases, the wharves, the airfields, the information and communications technology, and the science and technology. Much of that investment will indeed occur in regional Australia, which will boost local economies and help create jobs.

To deliver our long-term strategy to create a more capable, potent and agile Defence Force, the Turnbull government is also increasing defence spending to two per cent of GDP by 2020-21 in advance of our 2013 election commitment. There are currently over 2,300 ADF personnel deployed on operations as I speak, whether it is in the Middle East, in Iraq and Afghanistan, or on operations securing our borders. They serve with great dedication and commitment. They and their families sacrifice a great deal, and we acknowledge and thank them for their service.